A Lost Plot

Maverick, Sean, and Andrew review and debate the merits of Star Wars VIII: The Last Jedi.

The main themes discussed include the character development of Poe Dameron, the portrayal of legacy and legends, and the roles of Admiral Holdo and Princess Leia. The hosts have differing opinions on the execution of these themes and the overall quality of the film. In this part of the conversation, the principal themes discussed are the character development of Poe, the motivations and character arc of Rey, and the portrayal of Kylo Ren as a conflicted villain. The conversation explores how Poe's character could have been better developed if Princess Leia had died, allowing him to see the consequences of his actions. The lack of explanation for Rey's motivation to become a Jedi is highlighted, as well as the missed opportunity to explore her character's identity and desires. The discussion also delves into Kylo Ren's desire to emulate Darth Vader and his conflicting beliefs about destroying the past. Overall, the conversation provides insights into the character arcs and themes of the Star Wars sequel trilogy. In this part of the conversation, the focus is on the character of Kylo Ren and his arc of destruction. It is discussed how Kylo Ren tries to destroy the past and recreate things in his own image, but in the process, he reaffirms the Sith way. The conversation then shifts to the portrayal of Luke Skywalker in the film and the debate surrounding his character. Some argue that Luke's actions and decisions go against his established character, while others believe that his experiences and trauma justify his behavior. The ending of the film, with Luke disappearing and the conflict between him and Kylo Ren, is also discussed.

----------

Highlights:

0:00 Introduction to "Star Wars VIII: The Last Jedi"

4:32 Exploring Poe Dameron

16:45 Exploring the Themes of Legacy and Legends

21:24 The Roles of Admiral Holdo and Princess Leia

26:45 Arguing Over Rey

48:23 Kylo Ren: Emulating Darth Vader and Conflicting Beliefs 

1:03:14 The Debate Over Luke Skywalker's Character

1:18:22 The Ending: Luke's Disappearance and the Conflict

1:23:28 Pointless Expansion of the Universe

1:30:28 Star Wars VIII: The Last Jedi's Impact

----------

Show Notes:

9 Points Rating System: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/

Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens Review: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/maverick51411/episodes/2024-04-10T17_51_27-07_00

Starwars #episode8 #starwars8 #thelastjedi #alostplot #kyloren #lukeskywalker #rey #reyskywalker #snoke #palpatine #admiralholdo #holdomaneuver #gambling #finn #rose #dissapointment #debate #bothsides #makingthecase #poedameron #darthvader #characterarc #sith #jedi #skywalker #princessleia #legacy #legends 

In this conversation, Maverick and Patrick discuss the film 'The Silence of the Lambs' and its standout elements. 

They highlight the impact of the character Hannibal Lecter, the tension-building in the plot, and the compelling development of the protagonist, Clarice Starling. They also touch on the power dynamics between Hannibal and Clarice, as well as the real-life inspirations behind the characters. 

The A plot is identified as the interactions between Clarice and Hannibal, while the B plot is Hannibal's escape plan. The main plot of the movie consists of three interconnected dependencies: tracking Buffalo Bill, capturing Buffalo Bill, and Clarice hunting Buffalo Bill. The B-plot is Hannibal Lecter's escape. The movie is unique in that it reveals the identity of the killer early on, focusing instead on the mystery of how everything is connected. 

The relationship between Clarice and Hannibal is complex, with Hannibal forcing Clarice to confront her fears and grow as a person. Clarice's motivation stems from her traumatic childhood experience of hearing lambs being slaughtered, which drives her to save lives. The ending is ominous, with Hannibal escaping and Clarice receiving a congratulatory call from him. In this conversation, Maverick and Patrick discuss the movie 'The Silence of the Lambs' and its impact. 

They touch on various themes, including the character development of Clarice Starling, the portrayal of Jack Crawford, the exploration of misogyny, the disturbing nature of Buffalo Bill, and the concept of coveting. They also discuss the cultural impact of the film and its enduring relevance.

----------

Highlights:

0:01 The Impact of Hannibal Lecter

8:45 Power Dynamics between Hannibal and Clarice

15:42 Hannibal Lecter's Inspiration

24:37 A Plot v B Plot

35:20 Maverick's Thoughts On Plot Flow

40:29 Clarice's Motivation: Saving Lives and Confronting Fears

48:02 Dr. Chilton and Jack Crawford

52:10 Mysogyny in Silence of the Lambs

58:01 Jame Gumb as the villain "Buffalo Bill"

1:02:34 Themes and Messages

1:08:26 The Cultural Impact and Lasting Relevance

----------

Show Notes: 9 Points Rating System: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/ 

Hannibal Lecter Cookbook: https://a.co/d/05xf31Xa 

#hanniballecter #silenceofthelambs #claricestarlight #alostplot #filmreview #horror #killer #buffalobill #fbi #bleatingofthelambs #escape #serial #scary #classic #culturalimpact #cookbook #insaneasylum #dr 

Maverick and Avalon discuss and review the 2004 release “Collateral”. 

The conversation discusses the movie Collateral and focuses on the characters of Max and Vincent, as well as the side plot involving Detective Ray. Max's character arc is explored, highlighting his initial apathy and fear of taking risks, and how his involvement with Vincent forces him to confront his complacency. Vincent is portrayed as a complex villain who questions the meaning of life and poses philosophical questions to Max. The side plot with Detective Ray provides context and adds tension to the story. The death of Ray's character is praised for its unexpectedness and impact on the plot. In the second part of the conversation, Maverick and Avalon discuss the themes and ending of the movie 'Collateral'. They explore the character development of Max and Vincent, the philosophical points raised, and the climactic final scene. They also discuss the absence of the FBI and police involvement in the latter part of the film. Overall, they agree that 'Collateral' is a compelling story that encourages viewers to take responsibility and take action in their own lives.

----------

Highlights:

0:00 “Collateral” Introduction

7:02 Introducing Max

12:11 Apathy and Motive

20:21 Ray the Undercover Cop

29:57 Vincent, the Hitman

36:48 Max Breaks

41:41 The Train Showdown

50:46 Police Conflict Disappears

54:21 Thoughts and Impacts

----------

Show Notes:

9 Points Rating System: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/

#collateral #collateralfilm #tomcruise #jamiefoxx #alostplot #filmreview #moviethoughts #fbi #police #chase #hitman #tension #philosophical #villain #interestingvillain #jadapinkettsmith #markruffalo 

In this conversation, Maverick and Chad discuss and review the Studio Ghibli film Spirited Away. 

They explore the themes of courage, cultural differences in storytelling, and the contrast between Western and Eastern narratives. They also discuss the symbolism and mirroring in the film, as well as the character development of Chihiro. The conversation touches on the animation style of Studio Ghibli and the cultural influences on the story. Overall, they both appreciate the film and its narrative quality. The conversation explores the concept of using the 'Pope in a pool' technique in storytelling, where a distracting element is used to cover up exposition. The discussion also delves into the development of the main character, Chihiro, and her journey from fear and reservation to courage and determination. The importance of primal themes and values in storytelling is highlighted, as well as the significance of the bond between Chihiro and Haku. The plot progression and the use of the 'but therefore' principle in storytelling are also discussed. In this final part of the conversation, Maverick and Chad discuss the characters of Yubaba and No-Face in Spirited Away. They explore the nuanced motivations of Yubaba, who is driven by money and personal gain, and the contrast between her and Zaniba. They also delve into the symbolism of No-Face, who represents loneliness and the dangers of toxic relationships. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the message of the film, which emphasizes the importance of facing fears with courage and finding abundance in serving others.

----------

Highlights:

0:00 “Spirited Away” Introduction

7:25 Summary and Rating of "Spirited Away"

20:23 Dark and Symbolic Elements in Spirited Away

30:12 The "Pope in the Pool" Moment

34:48 Chihiro's Character Arc

38:44 The South Park Technique

48:35 Chihiro and Haku's Bond

1:01:30 Yubaba and the Opposing Spirits

1:14:03 The Symbolism of No-Face: Loneliness and Toxic Relationships

1:23:36 Message Going Forward

----------

Show Notes:

9 Points Rating System: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/ 

John Wick Review: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/maverick51411/episodes/2023-12-06T17_00_00-08_00

Star Wars I: The Phantom Menace Review: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/maverick51411/episodes/2023-12-20T18_00_00-08_00

Kingdom of Heaven Review: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/maverick51411/episodes/2024-05-01T17_24_32-07_00

#spiritedaway #studioghibli #culturaldifferences #alostplot #filmreview #popeinthepool #symbolism #loneliness #noface #chihiro #haku #alostplot #values #shintoism #dragons #moviethoughts #characterdevelopment #motivations #storytelling #courage #southpark #toxicrelationships #servingothers

Maverick and his co-host Avalon review Good Will Hunting from 1997. They discuss the character development of Will Hunting, the protagonist of the film, and his journey of self-exploration. They highlight the compelling motive of Will's character, which is to avoid going to jail. They also discuss the pivotal role of Sean, the psychologist, in challenging Will's perspective and helping him confront his own insecurities. The hosts note the lack of a clear antagonist in the film and the absence of high tension, but emphasize the engaging and intelligent conversations between Will and Sean. Overall, they find the film to be a compelling exploration of character growth. Good Will Hunting is a multi-layered film that explores themes of potential, personal growth, and the choices we make in life. The main character, Will Hunting, is a genius with a troubled past who is torn between settling for a comfortable life or pursuing his full potential. The film also delves into the importance of relationships and the impact they can have on our lives. The characters of Sean, Lambeau, and Skylar all play significant roles in Will's journey of self-discovery. The film's enduring relevance lies in its message of using our gifts and talents to make a positive impact on the world.

----------

Highlights:

0:00 “Good Will Hunting” Introduction

5:01 Does Character Growth Fit the 9 Points?

12:42 Will Hunting's Character

28:03 Lord of the Rings versus A Christmas Carol

38:31 Sean Maguire

47:43 Skylar

54:12 Themes and Messages

58:30 The Future of this Film

----------

Show Notes:

9 Points Rating System: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/

Lord of the Rings, the Return of the King Review: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/maverick51411/episodes/2024-03-06T18_00_00-08_00 

#goodwillhunting #classicfilm #mattdamon #benaffleck #alostplot #filmthoughts #selfexploration #psychology #psychologist #robbinwilliams #selfdiscovery #charactergrowth #characterdevelopment #characterarc 

Maverick and his guest Philip review the 2015 release “The Big Short”. 

They discuss the plot, characters, and themes of the film, as well as their personal opinions and ratings. They explore the unique structure of the movie, which follows multiple storylines and incorporates elements of comedy and documentary. The hosts also discuss the flaws and motivations of the main characters and the effectiveness of the film's opening scene. They touch on the tension and stakes of the story, as well as the use of breaking the fourth wall. Overall, they give positive reviews and highlight the film's ability to make complex financial concepts accessible and engaging. The conversation explores the accuracy of the events depicted in the movie 'The Big Short' and the motives of the characters. It delves into the themes of manipulation in the financial system and the need for more regulation. The principal themes identified are the accuracy of the events, the motives of the characters, and the obstacle presented by the financial industry. The movie effectively portrays the impact of the 2008 financial crisis on various characters, highlighting the corruption and greed within the financial industry. The revelations in the story build into a grand picture of how corrupt the system was, leaving the average person to pay the price. The characters undergo some transformation, particularly Mark Baum coming to terms with his brother's death. The movie ends with a preachy message about the need for more government regulation, which could have been softer or removed entirely. Overall, the movie is entertaining and thought-provoking.

----------

Highlights:

0:00 “The Big Short” Introduction

11:36 Banks Exposition

14:49 Flaws and Motivations

30:08 Pseudonyms, Fiction, and Reality

35:55 Motive and Themes of the Underdogs

41:58 The Behemoth Financial Industry

48:39 Disillusioned With the System

1:02:04 Revelations and Endings

1:07:09 Does Anyone Change?

1:10:55 Satisfaction and Solutions

1:19:42 What Would You Change?

----------

Show Notes:

9 Points Rating System: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/ 

#thebigshort #2008financialcrisis #greatrecession #alostplot #ryangosling #stevecarrell #christianbale #bradpitt #jeremystrong #governmentregulation #corruption #greed #financialindustry #housingindustry #stocks #shortposition #plot #characterdevelopment 

Maverick and Avalon review Viggo Mortenson’s “The Dead Don’t Hurt”. The conversation revolves around a review of the movie 'The Dead Don't Hurt' and delves into the characters, themes, and overall storytelling of the film. The hosts discuss the lack of clarity in character motives, the non-linear storytelling, and the absence of a clear overarching conflict or theme. They also explore the confusion around the main characters and the challenges in identifying the primary character in the story. A conversation between Maverick and Avalon Dickson discussing the movie 'The Dead Don't Hurt' and critiquing its characters, plot, tension, revelations, transformation, setting, and ending. They express disappointment in the storytelling and lack of emotional payoff, ultimately giving the movie a low rating.

----------

Highlights

0:00 "The Dead Don't Hurt" Introduction

4:37 Engaging versus Slow Openers

11:19 Who Is The Main Character

19:52 Unclear Motives and Unknown Themes

23:54 Weston Jeffries: Is He Stock?

27:28 The Emotional Rollercoaster

36:02 Revelations and Transformation

43:25 Messages and Setting

----------

Show Notes:

The 9 Points Rating System: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/

The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King Review: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/maverick51411/episodes/2024-03-06T18_00_00-08_00

#thedeaddonthurtfilm #viggomortenson #holgerolsen #alostplot #western #filmthoughts #lordoftherings #aragorn #vivienne #war #independentfilms #civilwar

The Social Network is a 2010 American biographical drama film about the founding of Facebook. The movie takes creative liberties with the true story, but raises interesting questions about the importance of accuracy in storytelling. The main character, Mark Zuckerberg, is portrayed as a smart but arrogant individual who becomes obsessed with proving himself. The development of his character throughout the story is well done, showing his flaws and transformation. The side characters, including Sean Parker, Eduardo Severin, and the Winklevoss twins, are also well developed. The Winklevoss twins serve as antagonists, but Mark Zuckerberg's biggest enemy is himself. The conversation explores themes of arrogance, selfishness, friendship, loyalty, and the cost of success. Mark Zuckerberg's character is portrayed as arrogant and self-centered throughout the movie, with his actions driven by his ego. The tension in the story builds as conflicts arise and relationships deteriorate. The movie highlights the consequences of running over people and the price one pays for their actions. The ending suggests that Mark realizes the mistakes he has made and seeks reconnection and redemption. Overall, the conversation provides a comprehensive analysis of the themes and messages conveyed in the movie.

----------

Highlights:

0:00 “The Social Network” Introduction

1:56 The Importance of Accuracy in Storytelling

9:39 Erica Albright's Accusation

14:41 Mark Zuckerberg's Flaws

15:58 Eduardo, Sean, and the Winklevoss Twins

23:10 Themes Playing Out

25:58 Building Tension and Deteriorating Relationships

31:25 Revelations

33:07 Transformation

37:46 Satisfaction and Messages

----------

Show Notes:
9 Points Rating System: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/ 

The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare Review: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/maverick51411/episodes/2024-04-24T17_00_00-07_00

The Lord of the Rings, the Return of the King Review: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/maverick51411/episodes/2024-03-06T18_00_00-08_00

Dune, Part 2 Review: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/maverick51411/episodes/2024-02-28T18_00_00-08_00

#thesocialnetwork #facebookfilm #markzuckerberg #alostplot #socialnetwork #meta #film #filmthoughts #moviereview #podcast #seanparker #eduardosaverin #startup #entrepreneur

Maverick, Avalon, and Patrick discuss the 2019 film by the Egger brothers, and get into a deeply divided discussion on the merits of this movie, it’s meaning, and its contribution to film as a whole.

----------

Highlights:

0:00 "The Lighthouse" Introduction and Rating

10:41 Maverick's Movie Philosohy

14:52 Greek Mythology

19:28 Opening Scene

25:59 Main Character

28:44 The Villain or Obstacle

40:51 Heightened Tension

44:46 Revelations

53:54 Unraveling the Layers

----------

Show Notes:

9 Points Rating System: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/

#thelighthouse #thelighthouse2019 #robertpattinson #alostplot #willemdefoe #eggersbrothers #eggersfilm #thelighthousefilm #arthousefilm 

Maverick and Philip discuss and review the 2023 release of “Wonka”.

The conversation revolves around the movie 'Wonka' and the character of Willy Wonka. The hosts discuss their expectations of the film and their impressions of the main character, played by Timothy Chalamet. They explore the depth of the character and his motivations, noting that Chalamet's portrayal did not feel believable. They also discuss the role of Noodle, a secondary character who may overshadow Wonka in the story. Overall, they find the character of Willy Wonka to be lacking in depth and compelling qualities. The conversation in this part focuses on the side characters and the motives of the protagonist in the movie 'Wonka'. The hosts discuss the lack of justice given to the side characters in the story and the confusing elements surrounding them. They also explore the motives of the protagonist, Willy Wonka, and how they could have been better developed. They highlight the need for emotional stakes and a more compelling story arc for the main character. The hosts suggest that the story could have focused more on Wonka's connection with his mother and his pursuit of starting a chocolate factory, while eliminating unnecessary subplots. In this conversation, Maverick and Philip discuss the movie 'Wonka' and share their thoughts on the ending and character development. They highlight the lack of character growth in Wonka and the unsatisfying revelations in the story. They compare it to other successful children's movies that have compelling character arcs. They also discuss potential improvements for the movie, such as focusing on Wonka's transformation and removing unnecessary plot elements. Overall, they emphasize the importance of meaningful character development and a satisfying ending in storytelling.

----------

Highlights:

0:00 “Wonka” Summary and Rating

3:31 Opening On Wonka

14:47 Was Noodle the Main Character?

23:51 Was Wonka's Motive Compelling?

38:06 Revelations and Ending Scenes

46:18 Who Wonka Becomes

50:21 Satisfaction!

----------

Show Notes:

9 Points Rating System: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/

Dune, Part 2 Review: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/maverick51411/episodes/2024-02-28T18_00_00-08_00 

#wonka #timotheechalamet #kidsmovie #2023release #alostplot #williewonka #williewonkaandthechocolatefactory #chocolate #chocolatefactory #moviethoughts #characterdevelopment #roalddahl #classic #candy